"Life is not a mystery to be solved, it is a reality to be experienced"---Van Der Leeuw

Here are the 10 most important things I’ve learned in life so far, based on both experience and observance (in no particular order):

-If you don’t have anything good (as in positive, uplifting etc.) or useful to say, don’t say anything.
-Life is simple and if you don’t take it too seriously, you’ll see that everything will be fine in the end.  Things may happen that don’t make sense or that are upsetting now but in the future, their purpose (whether direct or indirect) will be made clear. Nothing (good or bad) lasts forever.

 -Our lives are relatively short (compared to the vastness of time), so it should be cherished and enjoyed. The time we waste won’t ever be given back to us so we really should make the most of every moment we’re here.

 - Relationships should never be about gain. Being selfless without being taken advantage of is ideal. A romantic relationship should not be started unless you are happy with yourself and ready to share that happiness with someone else.
-Actually treat others the way you want to be treated no matter how they treat you, but know when to leave if you’re in any sort of danger (physical, emotional etc.). You can’t be surprised at the way things are in the world if you are only contributing to the negative/immoral aspects.

• Laughing keeps you young and healthy. So does refraining from smoking and doing harmful drugs, not drinking alcohol, drinking lots of water, exercising and constantly learning new things.
• Reading is great (so is Jeopardy!). It’s important to not believe everything you read though.
• Follow your own dreams and goals, or you’ll end up miserable and might have already wasted many years before you realize it. Also, don't be afraid of aiming too high; the human mind is amazing and can accomplish some great things. 
• It’s important to have at least one great friend and/or one real-life role model. They keep you humbled, sane and motivated. It’s also a good idea to try to be these things for others.
• There is no point trying to figure out the answers to those deep philosophical questions (meaning of life etc.). The only thing that matters is that you have some sort of idea or faith (your own personal answer) that you can live with and are satisfied with or you’ll find yourself going crazy searching for an objectively correct answer that will most likely never be known or doesn't even exist.  

What are the ten most important things that you've learned?